Battle Ground Public Schools

Staff member recognized for connecting students with work opportunities

From left: Cindy Arnold and Kris Neal

Work-Based Learning Coordinator Kris Neal recently received the Counseling and Career Development Professional Award. This award from the Washington Association for Career and Technical Education recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who have demonstrated commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, shown innovation in career exploration and development and advocated for career and technical education as a viable option for all students.

Kris Neal has been a work-based learning coordinator at Battle Ground High School since 2014. Prior to that, she worked at Summit View High School as the career guidance technician, supporting students and staff. Kris specializes in working with local and regional businesses that employ and support students. She connects her more than 200 work-based learning students with local and regional businesses. Through events such as a Dual Credit Night and Apprenticeship Signing Day, Kris encourages her students to work hard and succeed.

Said Director of Career and Technical Education Programs Cindy Arnold, “I think what sets Kris apart is the relationships that she has with our students, connecting them to their future, and the relationships that she has with our businesses. Bar none, I really believe Kris is the best in the state for connecting our district to our businesses.”